Arts District and Warehouse District, the fashionable districts of New Orleans

Arts District and Warehouse District, the perfect areas for art and architecture lovers!

Located close to the popular French Quarter, come and discover the urban renewal of these up-and-coming districts. Some of the warehouses and buildings are being renovated (others are not) and given a new lease of life as cultural and artistic centres.

Art galleries, studios for up-and-coming artists and museums are all there for you to discover. And don't forget that the streets in question are popular for street art.

Enjoy another New Orleans, away from the tourist districts.

Front of the Rebirth Warehouse District restaurant in New Orleans

- © William A. Morgan / Shutterstock

Arts & Warehouse: neighbourhoods in the midst of change

Warehouses and bridges from the Warehouse District in New Orleans

- © Rusty Todaro / Shutterstock

Between the cobbled streets, ramshackle warehouses of a 19th-century industrial zone, modern buildings and art galleries, these two districts boast remarkable architecture and character.

The magic often works, attracting artists of all stripes to these areas between the touristy Vieux Carré and the stuffy Garden District.

Don't forget your camera if architecture speaks to you.

The architectural evolution of the buildings is visible. Old brick factories still stand alongside more modern towers. Huge warehouses are being rehabilitated, and gentrification is gradually taking place.

Note that these areas are not very lively in the evening. Plan to take a taxi if you are travelling through these districts at night.

A few highlights from Arts & Warehouse Districts

The National WWII Museum

Entrance to the National WWII Museum in New Orleans

- © jejim / Shutterstock

An impressive museum dedicated to the American experience in the war that changed the world, the Second World War.

A vast collection (aircraft, war material) that can be viewed in immersive mode, making the visit even more interesting. Film and documentary screenings. Admission charge.

The Arts District

This is the Arts District of New Orleans. It was created in the 1990s with the aim of improving the neglected arts district of New Orleans. ADNO was created with the aim of attracting art lovers to the district and bringing it back to life.

ADNO organises free receptions every first Saturday of the month from 6pm to 9pm, showcasing new exhibitions.

There are dozens of art galleries to discover and admire. Julia Street is the most dynamic area.

Fulton Street Square: the liveliest part of the district.

In this part of the city, which is very quiet at night, this enclave brings the neighbourhood to life. The revitalised pedestrian zone is home to restaurants, clubs and boutiques.

Entrance to Fulton Street in New Orleans

- © GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

Where to stay near the Warehouse District?

The Mercantile Hotel New Orleans
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The Mercantile Hotel

Located in the centre of New Orleans, in the New Orleans Central Arts Warehouse District, The Mercantile Hotel offers free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk.
8.4 Very good
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£131 / night
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The Mercantile Hotel is housed in an old building in the fashionable Warehouse district. The hotel has been refurbished to a high standard and offers spacious and comfortable rooms. The hotel also has a gym, bar and car park.

Where to eat in the Warehouse district?

Restaurant Rebirth is a must for lovers of local (Creole & Cajun) cuisine. Even the cane sugar here is pressed directly by and for the restaurant, from producer to consumer, direct! Creole cuisine is enhanced by the talent of the chefs. Don't forget to book, as the restaurant fills up quickly.

Practical information

When should you visit Arts & Warehouse Districts?

You can come all year round. The Arts & Warehouse Districts Association organises free receptions every first Saturday of the month from 6pm to 9pm, so it's perfect if you're there then!

How do I get to the Arts & Warehouse Districts?

The most convenient way is by tram: the St Charles Streetcar Line serves this part of the city. The nearest stops are Julia and Lee Circle. These areas are also served by bus.

Payment is in coins, so remember to bring extra.

If you're coming by car, there are expensive pay-and-display car parks.

by Jude JONES
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